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TB Times Publishes Article in Response to NY Times Article

Written by QHN Staff on April 05 2012.

April 2012 - Thoroughbred Times published an article in response to the New York Times March 25 article that focused on racehorse (Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse) fatalities, medication and other negative issues within the sport. TBTimes editor's note: "[This] story appeared in the April 7 issue of Thoroughbred Times and analyzes data used in a New York Times article on March 25. Thoroughbred Times conducted its own survey of racing data to determine incident rates for 2009 to 2011.

In a letter to veterinarians dated March 25, the American Association of Equine Practitioners alerted the industry to a series of horse racing articles being written and published by the New York Times. The first article, which is linked below, addresses both the Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing industries.

In a letter to veterinarians dated March 25, the American Association of Equine Practitioners alerted the industry to a series of horse racing articles being written and published by the New York Times. The first article, which is linked below, addresses both the Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing industries.The AAEP letter, in part, states:

"The New York Times ran its first article today [March 25] in what is a planned multi-part series about horse racing. The focus is equine fatalities, medication and other issues in the sport.

"From the perspective of the AAEP, there is no higher priority for the racing community than the health and safety of its equine and human athletes. As doctors of veterinary medicine, we embrace and dedicate our lives to a unique level of stewardship for the horse. Many within our membership work daily in private and regulatory capacities to ensure that racehorses receive optimal care and are safe to race before stepping onto the track.

"There are organizations and individuals within horse racing who are working hard to bring positive change to the sport. But as we discuss this issue with our clients and colleagues, it is important to convey our belief that equine injuries are not a "cost of doing business" to which we have become accustomed. While it may never be possible to eliminate all risk of injury to our equine athletes, more can and must be done."